Single Idea 4897

[catalogued under 19. Language / D. Propositions / 2. Abstract Propositions / b. Propositions as possible worlds]

Full Idea

The proposition expressed by a sentence can be thought of as a set of possible worlds, the worlds for which its intension delivers truth.

Clarification

'Intension' is (roughly) meaning

Gist of Idea

A proposition is a set of possible worlds for which its intension delivers truth

Source

John Perry (Knowledge, Possibility and Consciousness [2001], §8.1)

Book Reference

Perry,John: 'Knowledge, Possibility and Consciousness' [MIT 2001], p.170


A Reaction

It has always struck me as important to hang on to the concept of a 'proposition' (over and above sentences). This idea gives a metaphysics for the concept, and the 'language of thought' offers appropriate brain structures. A neat picture.